Council plans public shooting range

October 19, 2010

In a 4-0 vote taken at its Oct. 11 meeting, the Snohomish County Council supported a motion asking the state Department of Natural Resources to reconvey approximately 227 acres of forest land to the county to build a public shooting range. The proposed site is located northeast of Sultan along the Sultan Basin Road.

"This has been a long time coming," said Councilmember Dave Somers. "I am very happy to sponsor this motion. This is a critical first step in making this project a reality."

The proposed shooting range has been discussed for more than 30 years. Somers noted that the lack of a public shooting facility has resulted in dangerous shooting practices at area gravel pits, wooded areas and near neighborhoods.

"The need is real," said Somers. "The vast majority of recreational shooting enthusiasts are responsible gun owners who just want a safe place to shoot. I'm excited that we're working to make that happen."

In February of this year, a gravel pit at 116th St. SE in Sultan, which had been frequented by local users for years, was designated a no-shooting area by the council because of the potential danger to nearby homes.

The county anticipates the state Board of Natural Resources will take formal action on the property's disposition before the end of the year.

Funding for the project has not yet been identified. The county will also need to address noise impacts and possible environmental considerations.